Another product I was able to get up close and personal with was the Sachtler Soom. I’ve had my eye on this set of sticks for quite a while. This all-in-one is pretty amazing and its versatility is off the charts.
Aside from functioning as a standard tripod, it also adjusts to a mini-pod, hi-pod and mono-pod. Users have two different head options depending on weight of their camera/lenses that will support small and full size cameras. Set up and conversions are fast and the equipment is rather lightweight too (at around twelve pounds). With a case that both rolls and has backpack straps, it’s easy to carry the Soom wherever it’s needed. We're looking to review the Soom for our readership in the near future.
The final product I want to comment on from NAB this year is an HD monitor from Ikan. This 17” unit is designed for field use, rack mounting or stand-alone scenarios. Its steel frame can be placed on a c-stand in the field or the monitor can be removed for use in a case such as the Petrol bag I wrote about earlier. At approximately $1,200, its affordability makes it a must-have. Having an accurate representation of recorded footage during production is invaluable for preventing post production nightmares. Investing in a quality monitor is well worth the cost.
I had a great time at NAB this year and saw tons of great gear. Continue to look to upcoming issues of MicroFilmmaker Magazine for reviews of many of these products. If you have the opportunity to come to Las Vegas for the show next year, I highly recommend it. It’s always a good time and showcases the best products in the industry. For NAB 2009, this is Jessica Creech signing off. See you next year in Vegas!
Jessica Creech is a lighting specialist that has worked in numerous elements of video production for over eleven years. Her clients have included the International Olympic Committee,
Canadian Broadcasting Corp., NFL, NHL, Rolex Equestrian 3-Day Event, AT&T/Comcast, Lexington Legends Baseball, Hammond Communications Group and others.
